Paddy’s Sub and Convenience by Cathy Martin
 
The idea of working for yourself and creating something that is your own is very compelling but very scary to me. My partner Reggie has been a business owner for many years and believes anything is possible. He gave me the encouragement I needed to go make it happen. When we discovered Paddy’s was for sale, we both thought it would be a great opportunity and that the move from St. Bride’s to Bay Bulls would be beneficial for our family.
 
I met with Maryanne at the CBDC and she was great. I found her to be very personable and genuinely interested in helping me. She directed me in writing my business plan, gave me guidance with the application process and helped me get financing through the CBDC that I needed to purchase Paddy’s. One year later and Paddy’s is doing great! Of course we had some challenges. In the beginning, we were going back and forth between Bay Bulls and St. Bride’s which was hard. We have three children ages 2, 12 and 16 so transitions are complicated. Getting used to a new community and it’s vibe is always a challenge but the people of Bay Bulls and surrounding area have been great and welcoming.
 
As with any new business there was (and is still) so much to learn. We are making some changes. We redesigned the current dining room and we called it the “Paddy Wakeham Room” after it’s founder. We have become great friends with Paddy and his family.  He is a loyal patron and he and his wife Marilyn were awesome at helping us transition and learn the business. Paddy is still there to lend a hand when we need it. We also did some exterior work and built on a new addition which will hopefully be open sometime this spring. We are planning to add a few new items to the menu. Our vision for the new part is to have a cozy pub-like atmosphere where patrons can come in, have a drink or a meal and take in the beautiful view and perhaps listen to some live music. Maryanne and the CBDC have proven invaluable to the development of my business as they still provide me with guidance and access to professional learning opportunities. I am excited for the future with Paddy’s and serving the people of this community. My family and I thank all of our patrons for their patience and continued support over the past year.
 
Visit us at 710 Southern Shore Highway, Bay Bulls or call 334-2081.